Help needed. We want to go to Ireland this summer.

[OrmIrian]

Last time I went was on a field trip in about 1986. I know nothing much about it TBH. Was in a stupor from cold/hunger/alcohol/illegal substances most of the time. But do remember it being very lovely and having some stunning archaeology.

We would like good beaches (preferaby for surfing?), reasonably close to some shops/pubs/restaurants, not too far to drive - (am expecting to get the ferry to Dun Laoghire (sp).

Please tell me where to start looking. I know nothing!

I went with imagine Ireland last year . We stayed just outside Arklow, in Co Wicklow. The cottage was great and the lady who owned it lived next door.
Nothing was too much trouble and we arrived to Homemade soda bread , apple pie and tea coffee and the like. Fab.
Only 1 1/4hrs drive from Dublin. HTH